Munish Sood
Shimla
The Blind Persons’ Association has accused the management of the Institute for the Children with Special Ability (Boys), Dhalli, of illegally expelling a visually impaired orphan, allegedly in retaliation for exposing mismanagement and poor conditions at the institute.
“Child Punished for Speaking the Truth”
Addressing a press conference, Shobha Ram Garg, President of the Blind Persons’ Association, condemned the expulsion of Birpal, a visually impaired orphan, calling it “harassment of the worst kind.”
“This is a clear case of punishing a child for speaking the truth,” Garg said. “Instead of addressing his concerns, the management conspired to remove him mid-session.”
Birpal was reportedly transferred in early August to the National Association for the Blind (NAB) facility in Kullu without prior notice, shortly after raising concerns about inadequate facilities and alleged misuse of resources at the Dhalli institute.
Memorandum Ignored by Authorities
Garg revealed that the Association submitted a detailed memorandum to the state government on August 11, 2025, urging immediate intervention. The memorandum was sent to the Social Justice Department, the Child Rights Commission, and the Chief Minister’s office.
“Till today, no action has been taken. The silence of the authorities is deeply troubling,” Garg said.
Media Blocked from Meeting Child
Journalists attempting to visit both the Dhalli institute and the NAB facility in Kullu were reportedly denied access to Birpal.
“If there is nothing to hide, why is the media being blocked? This points to a clear attempt to cover up corruption and mismanagement,” Garg alleged.
Long-Standing Allegations of Abuse
The Association claims that the Dhalli institute has long been plagued by discrimination, mental harassment, wrongful expulsions, and administrative corruption.
“These institutions are supposed to protect and nurture children with special needs. Instead, they have become places of fear and exploitation,” Garg stated.
Demands for Justice
The Blind Persons’ Association has placed the following demands before the state government:
- A high-level, impartial probe into the institute’s functioning, with the Association’s involvement.
- Immediate suspension of Principal Dharmapal Rana to ensure a fair investigation.
- Reinstatement of Birpal at the Dhalli institute with guaranteed safety.
- Mental health counselling for all students.
- Creation of an independent monitoring mechanism to safeguard children’s rights.
“We will not rest until Birpal is brought back, the guilty are punished, and the dignity of every disabled child is safeguarded,” Garg declared.
Violation of Rights
Garg described the incident as a violation of child protection laws, disability rights, and the fundamental right to freedom of expression.
“If a child can’t even speak about irregularities without facing retaliation, what hope is left for accountability?” he asked.
Awaiting Official Response
As of press time, neither the Social Justice and Empowerment Department nor the Dhalli institute’s management had issued an official statement. The state Child Rights Commission has also remained silent.
The Blind Persons’ Association has warned of intensified protests and legal action, including approaching the National Human Rights Commission, if the matter is not addressed promptly.
